What actions can contractors take to ensure compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981?

Contractors have a legal responsibility to avoid harming protected wildlife, including nesting birds and bats.

HA Trees And Countryside Or Wildlife 11
HA Trees And Countryside Or Wildlife 11

What actions can contractors take to ensure compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981?

Contractors have a legal responsibility to avoid harming protected wildlife, including nesting birds and bats.

Planning and good working practices are essential.   

Key responsibilities

Contractors should:

  • Check for nesting birds
  • Look for signs of bats or roosts
  • Plan work outside sensitive periods where possible

Risk assessment and method statements

  • Carry out site-specific risk assessments
  • Include wildlife considerations
  • Brief staff before work starts

Stop work if necessary

  • Stop work
  • Seek specialist ecological advice

General procedures

  • Tool box talk on the subject of nesting birds: what to look for and what to do if there is nesting activity within the trees or vegetation being worked on.
  • Record on all pre-works wildlife assessments e.g. ‘no nesting birds or nests within the tree’ as an added back up if questioned in relation to nesting bird disturbance. (Also included on SSRA)
  • Make sure you have an open and fair system in place so if accidental damage or disturbance occurs staff will report this immediately, this allows any necessary remedial action to be taken and ensures minimal impact on wildlife and nesting birds.
  • Continue to work to best practice, keep up to date with current legislation and work with the statutory and volunteer organisations in the area.

Next steps